Oven-baked frittata with greens

Oven-Baked Herb Frittata

If you're looking for a simple yet delicious recipe that combines the authentic taste of fresh ingredients with a slightly creamy texture, the herb frittata is the perfect choice. This versatile dish has its origins in Italian culinary tradition and can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The frittata is an enriched version of the omelet, often prepared with potatoes, but today I will show you how to make it with fresh herbs that will give it a vibrant and comforting flavor.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Total time: 55-65 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 4 medium potatoes
- 5 large eggs
- 100 g sheep cheese (or feta cheese, if you prefer)
- A handful of fresh parsley
- A handful of fresh oregano leaves
- A few chives (or 1-2 green onions, if chives are not available)
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground pepper
- Olive oil for greasing

The history of the frittata is fascinating, being a dish that has evolved over time, adapting to available ingredients and cultural preferences. From the humble meals of Italian peasants to luxury restaurants, the frittata has managed to remain a symbol of simple and tasty cooking.

Preparation:

1. Preparing the potatoes: Start by peeling the potatoes and slicing them thinly. If you want a more interesting look and a finer texture, you can use a grater to get shredded potatoes. I recommend leaving them in slices to add a crunch to the dish.

2. Boiling the potatoes: Place the potatoes in a pot of boiling water with a teaspoon of salt. Let them boil for 2 minutes, no more, as we don't want to cook them completely. This will help maintain their texture. After two minutes, drain them well and let them cool slightly.

3. Preparing the herbs: While the potatoes are cooling, finely chop the parsley and chives. The oregano leaves easily detach from the stem, as the stem is quite woody. Make sure to have a generous amount of greens, as this will add a fresh and aromatic flavor to the frittata.

4. Beating the eggs: In a large bowl, beat the 5 eggs with a whisk until frothy. Add salt and pepper to taste – don't be afraid to season, as the eggs will be the base of your frittata.

5. Combining the ingredients: Add the boiled and drained potatoes, along with the parsley, oregano, and sheep cheese (crumbled into small pieces). Gently mix everything so that the ingredients combine well without breaking the potatoes.

6. Preparing the baking dish: Grease a tart pan with olive oil. You can use a round or square dish, depending on your preference. Make sure the oil evenly coats the bottom and sides of the dish to prevent sticking.

7. Baking the frittata: Pour the egg and ingredient mixture into the prepared dish. Grate some cheese on top – this will form a golden and appetizing crust in the oven. Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the frittata for 40-50 minutes, or until it is firm in the center and has a nicely browned crust.

8. Cooling and serving: Once the frittata is done, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, being just as delicious in either form. It is ideal for a light lunch but also as an appetizer at a festive meal.

Serving suggestions:
The herb frittata is fantastic on its own, but it can be accompanied by a fresh salad of tomatoes and cucumbers or an avocado salsa for a contrast of textures and flavors. A glass of white wine or a cold mint tea perfectly complements the meal!

Tips and variations:
- You can add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to customize the frittata according to your preferences.
- Substitute sheep cheese with goat cheese for a more intense flavor.
- If you're vegetarian, the frittata is perfect to be served alongside a portion of hummus or guacamole.

Nutritional benefits:
The frittata is an excellent source of protein, thanks to the eggs, and contains complex carbohydrates from the potatoes. The fresh herbs provide a large dose of vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy and nourishing dish.

Calories:
A serving of herb frittata contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the added ingredients. It is an excellent choice for a hearty lunch or a light dinner.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of cheese?
Of course! Feta or mozzarella cheese are delicious alternatives. Experiment with different types to find the perfect combination.

- Is frittata good the next day?
Absolutely! The frittata can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated, but it is just as good cold.

- Can I add meat to the frittata?
Sure! Bacon or ham can add extra flavor. Make sure to cook them beforehand to add to the egg mixture.

Oven-baked herb frittata is more than just a simple recipe – it is a culinary experience that brings together simple yet flavorful ingredients. So put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a delicious dish that will delight your family and friends!